Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the HMX Vintage Citrus represent two compelling options for distinct user preferences. The V3 Piano Pro, known for its long pole design, delivers a lively auditory experience with its snappy sound signature, providing a delightful combination of "bouncy," "clacky," and "silky" feels—ideal for users who appreciate both sound and smooth actuation in their typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch excels in speed, featuring an incredibly low actuation force of just 1mm, tailored for gamers seeking rapid-response keystrokes, coupled with a bright, clacky sound profile that adds excitement to gameplay. While both switches cater to different aspects of mechanical keyboard enjoyment, they share the linear category that promises smoothness in actuation. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches are intriguingly similar, as both utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a consistent sound profile for both switches. Nylon is noted for its unique ability to absorb sound due to its relatively softer nature compared to harder plastics. The deeper, fuller sound profile generated by typing on these switches can be attributed to the acoustical properties of nylon, leading to a muted and rounded auditory experience regardless of which switch you are using. Therefore, users can expect a satisfying typing experience characterized by a softer and more acoustic sound when engaging with either the V3 Piano Pro or the Vintage Citrus.
In exploring the impact of the different housings, it is important to understand how the characteristics of nylon permeate both the top and bottom housings of these switches. With both featuring nylon constructions, the qualities they elicit during key presses remain consistent; however, the specifics of each housing's position influence the typing experience. While the bottom housing primarily dictates the feel and sound at bottom-out, the top housing affects sound release upon key release. That said, the shared nylon composition ensures that both switches deliver a similar auditory output, reinforcing the notion that the key experience in sound and feel remains largely consistent across the two products.
Ultimately, the identical material selections for the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the HMX Vintage Citrus create a unified typing dynamic that highlights the inherent advantages of nylon switch housings. Both switches provide the same depth of sound and tactile experience, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Thus, whether a typist chooses the V3 Piano Pro or the Vintage Citrus, they will ultimately enjoy a comparably rich acoustic experience, underscoring the preference for nylon in mechanical keyboard designs. This compatibility in sound and feel makes either option appealing for those pursuing a more immersive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, we see some interesting distinctions in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Piano Pro requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Vintage Citrus necessitates a heavier actuation force of 48 grams. This aspect makes the V3 Piano Pro more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, particularly during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces are quite close, with the V3 Piano Pro at 55 grams and the Vintage Citrus at 53 grams, making both feel relatively similar when fully pressed. Ultimately, if you favor a lighter typing experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro with its lower actuation force might be the better choice, while the HMX Vintage Citrus offers a marginally more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a little more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the longer option, ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced key feel and depth when typing. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, appealing to users who favor quicker response times and a more abrupt actuation, often preferred by gamers. This difference indicates that while both switches are linear, they serve distinct user preferences based on how they respond when pressed. Ultimately, those seeking a more responsive experience should opt for the Vintage Citrus, while those who appreciate depth and a robust key press would find the V3 Piano Pro more to their liking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch presents a clacky and resonant auditory profile. Each keystroke produces a sharp, bright, and percussive sound that creates an engaging typing environment. This lively sound enhances the overall experience, making it particularly satisfying for users who appreciate audible feedback in their mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch does not have a defined sound profile in the provided information, which leaves its acoustic characteristics largely unknown. However, the acoustic performance of each switch can also be influenced by the keyboard construction and keycap choice, so it’s worth considering these factors when selecting a switch.
In terms of feel, the V3 Piano Pro excels with its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky characteristics. The long pole design allows for a lively and elastic typing experience, making each keystroke feel responsive and enjoyable. The smooth actuation is enhanced by the factory lubing or the materials used, contributing to a refined and seamless transition between presses. On the other hand, the feel of the Vintage Citrus switch is not explicitly described, which suggests that its tactile sensation remains a point of uncertainty. Nevertheless, considering the switch's design aimed at rapid response, one might anticipate a comfortable and potentially smooth pressing experience, albeit less defined than that of the V3 Piano Pro.
In summary, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers both a vibrant sound and a thoughtfully crafted feel, the HMX Vintage Citrus’s characteristics in these areas remain largely unsaid, particularly in its auditory signature and tactile experience. For those who appreciate a lively, clacky sound and a smooth, responsive typing feel, the V3 Piano Pro stands out as a strong choice. If a user prioritizes gaming performance, the unknowns of the Vintage Citrus may still be appealing, but more information would be helpful to make a definitive comparison. Ultimately, the choice will depend on the user's preferences regarding sound and feel in their typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you appreciate a lively and resonant sound profile coupled with a smooth and polished typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro is an excellent choice, particularly for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while typing or gaming. Its slightly heavier bottom-out force provides a satisfying and springy feel, making it ideal for general use and longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you are primarily focused on rapid input and gaming, the HMX Vintage Citrus stands out with its exceptionally low actuation force and quick response time, allowing for lightning-fast key presses. The bright, clacky sound and smooth push make it perfect for gamers who prioritize speed and quick reflexes. Ultimately, whether you seek a more tactile and auditory experience or crave a swift and responsive setup will guide your choice between these two compelling switches.
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